Housing Minister Encourages Landlords to Improve Their Knowledge

The Housing Minister has called on private landlords to improve their knowledge of private rental sector laws.

Gavin Barwell’s suggestion arrives as Justin Tomlinson, the Conservative MP for North Swindon, questions whether the Department for Communities and Local Government is taking any steps to raise awareness among landlords of the laws that they must abide by.

Housing Minister Encourages Landlords to Improve Their Knowledge

Barwell insisted: “We expect all landlords to understand and comply with their legal responsibilities and the majority do so, providing decent and well managed homes. We want to support these landlords and avoid placing unnecessary burdens on them.”

However, he advises: “We encourage landlords to improve their knowledge and professionalism, including their understanding of their legal responsibilities, by becoming a member of a landlord accreditation scheme, such as those run by the landlord associations or many local authorities.

“In addition, we have published guidance for landlords on, for example, their responsibilities under the Housing Health and Safety Rating System, which was introduced by the Housing Act 2004.”

“A small minority of landlords exploit their tenants, placing them in unsafe and unsuitable accommodation,” says Barwell. “The Government is determined to crack down on these rogue landlords, who have no place in the sector.”

To ensure that you stick to the law, remember to keep up to date with the latest information and advice for landlords at Landlord News.